About Us

About the Virginia Dental Association Foundation

We are passionate about dental care and oral health because they profoundly affect the well-being and quality of life of individuals and communities. However, for many people, financial realities leave them with no hope of securing care. That is why our Foundation exists - to advance dentistry and oral health through education, research, and access to care. As the charitable and outreach arm of the Virginia Dental Association, the Virginia Dental Association Foundation (VDAF) garners the resources of dental professionals and the community at large to offer programs that serve hundreds of people annually. Our vision is that every Virginia resident will have access to oral health care.

Oral health influences all aspects of our lives -- overall health, appearance, and even employment. Studies repeatedly show that poor oral health and diseases of the mouth can lead to other serious concerns, including diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Unfortunately, thousands of people experience pain, difficulty chewing, low self-esteem and other complications resulting from oral disease, simply because they lack resources to access dental care. Founded in 1996, the VDAF is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that provides access to dental care for underserved Virginians. It accomplishes this mission through its three nationally-recognized programs -- Mission of Mercy, Donated Dental Services, and Give Kids A Smile.